I just found out that I will be going to Edinburgh next week. I plan to fly in a few days early and will have Friday, Saturday & Sunday all to myself.

I enjoy hiking, biking, walks with local guides, gardens, shopping, castles, eating, pubs and people watching. I will usually try a museum or two as well.

Could you please recommend the top 1 or 2 things "not to be missed?"

Should I stay in Edinburgh all three days or should I head off on a side trip one of the days? If I should head off what would you recommend.

Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile
That would take about 1-2 days

hiking:- Arthur's Seat very early in the morning; the riverside at Cramond, and Sunday lunch at the Cramond Inn

biking:- forget it. too much hassle hiring bikes in the time you have available.

walks with local guides:- do a ghost walk

gardens:- go to the Botanics
shopping: Victoria Street, the Grassmarket, Rose Street, George Street and Stockbridge. NOT Princes Street,

castles:- hang on. I'll see if I can think of a good one (DUH!)

eating:- too big a choice to mention

pubs:- ditto

people watching:- ditto

museum:- NMS. Try to be there at noon for when the Millenium Clock strikes.

ttt

I knew Sheila would come through for you!

The Museum of Scotland is an OUTSTANDING museum and a must-see. Lots of Roman antiquities--I'd never seen an intact Roman TENT before. Great cafe/restaurant on the top floor, too. http://www.nms.ac.uk/scotland/home/

Thanks to all!! I will publish a trip report when I get back.